Report: Browner turned down reduced suspension

The Sports Xchange

The SportsXchangeDecember 8, 2013

Seattle Seahawks cornerback Brandon Browner, facing a yearlong suspension, reportedly turned down an offer from the NFL that would have allowed him to return to the field next October rather than in December. Under the deal, Browner would have been eligible to return at the start of October, Mike Garafolo of FOX Sports reported. Browner is contesting his placement in Stage 3 of the NFL's substance-abuse program, arguing that the league improperly advanced him while he was playing in the CFL from 2007 to 2010. He also is claiming his urine sample in the positive test in September was mishandled, according to Garafolo. Browner claims the urine collector used a damaged cup and then poured the urine into another cup. Browner's request to have the collector testify during appeal hearings was denied, Garafolo reported, and the collector disputed Browner's account in a conversation with the league's medical director. Browner will be a free agent after the season and apparently wants the entire suspension dismissed. He reportedly is prepared to sue the league if a suspension is levied. Browner has missed the past two games with a groin injury and also will not play in San Francisco on Sunday. The Seahawks have kept Browner on the roster as they await resolution of the appeal. That is expected to take another week or two.